For Bill and Wanda Grevatt, the experiences that mean the most have always been the ones they do together.

Having spent their lives building successful careers – Wanda working for Bell Canada in Montreal and Toronto, Bill as owner-partner of an electronic sales agency – they found themselves in their late 40s and early 50s, questioning their future. 

“Over a glass of wine one evening, we simply looked at each other, smiled and said why not? Let’s see the world,’” Bill recalls. “’We knew nine to five, but the unknown was far more exciting. Why not try?” 

Early retirement gave Bill and Wanda something they valued deeply – time. Travels early in their retirement landed Bill and Wanda in Kelowna. While visiting friends in Gallaghers Canyon, the question that led to early retirement popped up again: why not move to Gallaghers? Wanda asked. Well, 30 years on, they still call Gallaghers home. They value the community, friendships and acceptance shown to them, a couple of travelers from the East.  

Travel has been a wonderful experience and education. It never grows old and has left them with countless memories. 

“The ones you remember most are the ones off grid,” Bill says. “Just the vastness and solitude of the backcountry which then gives way to reflection and wonder is priceless.” 

In late 2022, Bill noticed subtle changes. Wanda started stepping back from golf and community activities she once led with confidence. Small memory lapses began to happen more often. 

“It just wasn’t the Wanda we knew,” he says. 

After assessments and multiple doctor’s consultations, Wanda was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in June 2023. They approached the diagnosis in the same way they approached retirement and travel: another challenge to be taken, together and with intention. Soon after receiving the diagnosis, Bill wrote to family and friends to explain what was happening. Many had noticed the changes but were unsure how to ask about them. 

“Being open and up front helped,” Bill says. “People appreciated knowing. It made things easier for both of us.” 

That openness became central to Bill’s shift into caregiving. He focused on adapting while still preserving the respect and partnership that had defined their 58 year marriage. Early on, he connected with the Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon. Through caregiver support groups, social programs, Minds in Motion® and educational webinars, Bill found guidance, reassurance and direction. 

“You realize you’re not alone,” he says. “You’re talking to people who understand.” 

While dementia has changed their routines, Wanda’s strength remains. Bill describes her as a fighter with an edge. The same determination that carried her up mountain trails and through competitive challenges now shows up in quieter, but meaningful ways. Travel looks different today and golf and skiing are no longer part of the weekly routine, but connection with long held friendships and family still anchors their days.  

Music now fills their home. Singing and snapping their fingers to the songs of the ‘60s and laughing together, just as they always have. For Bill, caregiving is another chapter in the life they chose all those years ago when they stepped away from the nine to five and into something unknown, facing each new challenge directly and openly. 

“The changes can be daunting,” he says. “But you stay positive. You stay open. You remember you’re in this together. If we can start and finish each day with a hug and a smile, that’s a big deal for us.”